SAN BERNARDINO – Catching up with Linda Wilson-Carter is no easy task – unless you’re one of the hundreds of seniors who visit Perris Hill Senior Center every day.

“Today’s seniors live longer, are more active and enjoy a wider variety of activities,” said Wilson-Carter, 48, a community recreation program supervisor who manages the Perris Hill center as well as another downtown.

Wilson-Carter, affectionately known as “Miss Linda” to the 300 to 500 seniors who visit the Perris Hill center daily, has worked for the city’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services since 1989.

On a recent morning at the center, a handful of men shot pool in one room, a group of advisory board members mulled over upcoming events and an exercise class moved to music. Wilson-Carter bounced from room-to-room to check on the activities and offer upbeat encouragement.

Wilson-Carter works with part-time staffers and scores of volunteers.

“I couldn’t manage without their support,” she said.

“When she comes in, the place comes alive,” said Sarah Montes, 73. “She brings the energy.”

Looking to the future, Wilson-Carter said two goals are in mind: Providing transportation to and from the center for the seniors, and opening a similar facility on the city’s north end.